You may find it hard to believe, but it’s true: There’s a significant, well-researched link between heart disease and stroke and oral health problems, specifically gum disease. Research has shown that having periodontal disease increases the likelihood that you will suffer a stroke, and it has also shown that if a patient has acute cerebrovascular ischemia, the patient often has gum disease as well.
This is just part of the interaction between gum disease and cardiovascular disease that the right dentist can help you overcome when you visit regularly. Gum disease caused by bacteria around your teeth gets worse over time, and so do many of the diseases with which it interacts. Your dentist can help you overcome your oral health concerns for better overall health.
The Gum Disease And Cardiovascular Link
Gum Disease, Heart Disease, and Stroke
As coronary arteries fill with fatty substances, those substances can build up to a level where heart disease is present and the heart cannot process oxygen properly or do its job of pumping blood throughout the body. That means the heart must work harder to maintain oxygen levels in the blood – for as long as it can manage it. As heart disease progresses, patients often develop blood clots that cause heart attacks.
Anyone with a basic scientific understanding can see how gum disease can make heart disease worse. That’s why it’s important if you have a risk for heart attack or stroke to work with both a cardiologist and a dentist to stay as healthy as possible.
There are three scientific theories that further explain the interaction between a heart condition and gum disease:
Spreading of oral bacteria. Bacteria present in the mouth from gum disease can get into the bloodstream and move throughout the body, potentially interacting with fatty protein buildups and leading to clotting.
C-reactive proteins from inflammation. C-reactive proteins are present where there is inflammation in the body because they result from an immune system response. These proteins are known to have a negative cardiovascular impact that can lead to an increased risk of symptomatic heart disease.
Weakened immune system. When people have high levels of bacteria in the mouth, they also often have weak, underperforming immune systems. That means any health problems they develop get worse quickly, and that includes heart disease.
Diagnosis and Successful Treatment
If you have heart problems, you must be vigilant against developing gum disease. When you visit an SDDA dentist, they will conduct a full exam to understand the health of your gums, teeth, and jawbone, which also may include digital x-rays and other simple diagnostics. They may then recommend a deep cleaning to remove bacteria from your mouth and keep it from coming back, perhaps including scaling and root planning. Antibiotics may be part of the plan too.
For your consultation that gets you started with gum disease treatment, reach out to a San Diego Dentist Association member now. It’s a smart decision for overall health and a beautiful, vibrant smile.